Peter Stolk: 'Innovation is not a one-man show'

Quantum, sustainable mobility. High tech plays an increasingly large role in our daily lives. We interviewed Peter Stolk, the new chairman of Holland High Tech. With his roots in top companies such as ASML and Philips, he understands the challenges that the Netherlands is facing, and knows how the high-tech sector can have a positive impact. According to Stolk, it is time we step out of our bubble, both when it comes to innovation and society in general.

How would you describe yourself in one word?

“Enthusiastic. I find many things interesting. That could be sports, music, or socializing with family and friends. And - I learned this from my parents - I don't like to do things by halves. If I commit to something, I give it my heart and soul."

Is that enthusiastic attitude also reflected in your working life?

“Absolutely. In my 35 years of work experience, I have noticed that three things make me very enthusiastic. Firstly: technology. I studied physics and obtained a doctorate. Secondly, I love working with others. I couldn't work alone in an attic. Finally, I find it increasingly important that the market and society are closely involved in the projects I carry out. When these three elements come together, I get excited.”

You have worked for Philips and ASML, among others. What lessons did you learn there?

“What I learned above all is that innovation is not a one-man show. I can best explain this using the example of a sports watch from about 15 years ago. This was the first watch that could measure your heart rate with an optical sensor. At the time, I worked at Philips Corporate Technologies and managed a department where all kinds of technologies relevant to the development of this product came together. Philips had the knowledge and experience in the field of medical technology, but integrating such an optical measurement method into a watch and making it work while running is a different story. We put together a team that combined all the necessary knowledge: people with expertise in sensors, optics, and signal processing. And, very importantly, the end customer, the company that wanted to bring this watch to market. In short, I learned that it is very important to keep the links in the chain as close together as possible.”

Over the years, you must have learned a lot about the challenges facing the Netherlands.

“We are indeed facing major challenges. Take the realization of our climate goals, for example. Or congestion on the electricity grid and information security. Technology and innovation play a crucial role in many areas. For example, quantum encryption can make an important contribution to data security. As for energy efficiency, data centers consume a lot of energy, mainly because AI applications require a lot of computing power and data processing. That is why we are looking at alternatives such as neuromorphic computing, an approach that is more efficient and more similar to the way our brains work, which is more energy efficient."

You are taking over from Marc Hendrikse at Holland High Tech. What do you see as your most important mission?

“I hope to be able to contribute something to the Netherlands, for example. The mission is to ensure that resources are optimally deployed and spent in the sector. The Hague makes around €50 million available annually for the high-tech sector. Holland High Tech ensures that this money ends up with the right consortia of knowledge institutions and public and private parties, from SMEs to large companies. That is a very important role.

I also see it as my mission to make Holland High Tech recognizable in the Netherlands. We have a connecting function and want to bring as many parties together as possible.”

You have been working energetically in the first 100 days of this new role. What is on the agenda for the near future?

“During the many interesting introductory meetings, I am of course, learning more about what is going on in the Netherlands. At the end of March, Hannover Messe will take place, where I will host the Dutch pavilion. That is important for the visibility of our country abroad. In May, I will also join several trade missions that will take place in the context of the World Expo in Osaka. I am also a member of Semicon Board NL, which was established in January. It is great to be able to promote the international knowledge and innovation interests of the Netherlands in this way.”

Would you like to leave a message for the reader?

“When it comes to innovation, it is very important to look beyond your own discipline and seek out collaboration. That is exactly what we are achieving with Holland High Tech. What worries me is that people are increasingly living in their bubble. It is also important to see the broader perspective. This applies to innovation but also to society in general. I hope we can continue to make progress together. It may sound like a somewhat pious message, but it is very close to my heart.”

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